Smith Dam
Key Takeaway
Smith Dam is classified as low hazard in Iowa. It was completed in 1972 and is 54 years old. Its primary use is fire protection.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 35 ft (taller than 70.9% in IA) |
| Dam Length | 496 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 114 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 72 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 8 acres |
| Drainage Area | 0 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 0 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1972 (54 years old) |
| NID ID | IA00350 |
Safety Information
No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
Raymond Smith
Private
Nearby Dams
Decatur County Roadgrade Dam 14-69-27
Decatur, IA
Low Hazard 30 ftNorth Woods Lake Dam
Decatur, IA
Significant Hazard 57 ftLittle River Watershed Site 65-2
Decatur, IA
Low Hazard 30 ftHigdon Dam
Decatur, IA
Low Hazard 33 ftFaber Dam
Decatur, IA
Low Hazard 24 ftEast Fork Big Cr Watershed Site E-3
Decatur, IA
Low Hazard 18 ftHawkins Dam
Decatur, IA
Low Hazard 31 ftSlip Bluff Park Dam
Decatur, IA
Low Hazard 33 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Smith Dam?
Smith Dam is classified as Low Hazard. No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Smith Dam?
Smith Dam is owned by Raymond Smith (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Smith Dam built?
Smith Dam was completed in 1972, making it 54 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.
What is the primary purpose of Smith Dam?
Smith Dam serves the following purposes: Fire Protection, Stock, Or Small Fish Pond. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Smith Dam?
Smith Dam has a dam height of 35 ft. Dam height is measured from the natural streambed at the downstream toe to the top of the dam, and may differ from the visible height.